sorry i don't know how many letters are in the answers.
5. mature age lost a letter 6. unusual to do this with the vessel 10. the first is made of the second 12. m/e 13. sounds as if birds imitate cats 14. used to have hardy connection 15. alternatively; initially - can hold it down 17. change a vowel and find it in hospital 19. give to the reaper with perfect background 24. the spanish behind the castle'e enclosed land 25. how the lady can do well for herself